New Potatoes and Walnut Sauce

The crunch of walnuts adds a flavorful surprise to this sophisticated potato dish. Serve it as an accompaniment for a special dinner, or add some sliced seitan or cooked chickpeas and serve it as an entrée. The walnut oil intensifies the flavor of the walnuts, but even made without it, the dish tastes great. Times are estimated. Recipe courtesy The Vegetarian Meat and Potatoes Cookbook.

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2  lbs  small red new potatoes
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 2  shallots, minced
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon cayenne
• 1  cup walnut pieces
• 2  tablespoons walnut oil (optional)
• 1  tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1  tablespoon  minced fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. Place the potatoes in a large saucepan with cold water to cover. Salt the water, bring to a boil and boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 30 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
2. Halve or quarter the potatoes, depending on their size. Set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots, cover and cook, stirring a few times, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 7 to 10 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with the salt and cayenne. Add the walnuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
6. Transfer the potatoes to a large serving bowl. Add the walnut oil, if using, lemon juice and parsley and toss gently to coat. Serve at once.